A program exists on Fort Carson solely to optimize the physical fitness of Soldiers.

Available to Soldiers across post, the Human Performance Optimization Program (HPOP) mission is to enable combat readiness by refining and enhancing unit Physical Readiness Training (PRT) plans and practices.

The 4th Infantry Division asset based at Garcia Physical Fitness Center employs two athletic trainers who work with Soldiers to supplement physical therapy and three performance instructors who provide strength and conditioning training.

“We’re here to help in any type of capacity necessary,” said Joe Todd, HPOP performance instructor.

Performance instructors work with unit leadership and Master Fitness Trainers, to aid or add balance to traditional PRT. The HPOP has developed specialized programs and workshops for units based on their specific organizational fitness imperatives.

“If you want to work on technique with some of your barbell lifts, squat, deadlift or overhead press, we can set up a time that will work for your unit to where we can come in and we’ll go through that workshop based on your schedule.”

The performance instructors are certified strength and conditioning specialists licensed by the National Strength and Conditioning Association, professionals who apply scientific knowledge to train athletes for the primary goal of improving athletic performance. They design and implement safe and effective strength and conditioning programs while providing guidance on injury prevention. Additionally, instructors have years of experience working with college or professional teams and in high-performance tactical units.

The HPOP is unique to the Regular Army, said Todd.

Traditionally, programs such as the HPOP are offered to teams working in smaller capacities, such as the Special Forces groups.

The performance instructors are collecting empirical data and statistics to quantify the impact that HPOP has with participants to determine the viability of opening parallel programs on other posts.

“What we’re trying to do now is to get a template for how this works and how this can be implemented with the bulk of the force, so other installations can create programs like this,” he said. “We are really trying to teach these Soldiers the best way to train to optimize their results and be combat ready.”

“You can only go so far without plateauing, so throwing something else in there really gets people motivated,” said Brakeman. “The trainers are outstanding. They’re really knowledgeable, really easy to work with and good motivators. (It) keeps people wanting to do more, it keeps people from sustaining more injuries.”